They were greeted and addressed by Prime Minister David Cameron, Education Secretary Michael Gove, Parliamentary Under-Secretary for Schools Lord John Nash, chief executive for the National College for Teaching and Leadership Charlie Taylor and Schools Commissioner Frank Green.

Miss Regan said: “They thanked us for our valuable contribution to the success of education policy, which is an incredible honour and high praise indeed for everyone who works tirelessly to ensure the continued success of Carmel Education Trust.

“We strive relentlessly in every lesson, every day, to ensure our students receive the very best education imaginable. We will not waver from this aim but to receive recognition from such esteemed company cannot fail to encourage and enthuse us in all our endeavours.”